Thursday, April 18, 2013

Stay safe - Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCI)

GFCI Receptacle

Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters are safety features in your home electrical system.  These outlets and devices reduce the risk of severe or fatal electric shock by monitoring for electrical current loss/leaks or "ground faults". If the outlet notices a leak (this is measured by 6 milliamps or more of the electrical current leaving the device is not returning), they are designed to shut off the electricity to protect you from being electrocuted. By detecting dangerous current flow and instantly shutting off power, ground fault circuit interrupters save hundreds of lives every year. 



Where to use them
 
Anywhere close to water. They are typically near kitchen sinks, in bathrooms near sinks, tubs, whirlpool and showers, exterior outlets, garages, hot tubs and near laundry tubs.

Where not to use them

Some areas that you may not want a GFCI are: sump pump, freezer, fridge and sewage ejector. If the GFCI trips, it could have costly impacts to your home, especially a sump pump.

Different Types of GFCIs

GFCIs can be special breakers in your electrical panel (look for a Test button) or special receptacles (outlets) with Test and Reset buttons. Often you can find the letters “GFI” or “GFCI” on them.

• Circuit Breaker: A circuit breaker ground fault circuit interrupter is installed in the electrical  panel box. This not only allows the GFCI to protect selected circuits that may encounter a ‘ground-fault,’ but it will also trip when there is an electric short or overload. GFCI circuit breakers feature a "test" button on the front that you can use to test that it's working properly. This is the same sort of feature you find on GFCI receptacles (see below). After you press the "test" button you will have to reset the breaker to turn the circuit back on. The curly white wire pre-attached to a GFCI breaker must be tied into your breaker panel neutral bar when installed by a qualified electrical contractor. Note: When you test, this will disconnect the power to everything on that circuit until you reset the breaker.

GFCI Circuit Breaker


• Receptacle: This is the most common type used in homes. This type of GFCI fits into a standard outlet box and protects against ‘ground faults.’ This ensures that any electrical device plugged into an outlet is protected from "ground faults".

 


• Portable: Portable GFC interrupters can be plugged into an outlet and in turn, the electrical device is plugged into the GFCI. This adds extra protection to plugged in devices when a circuit breaker or receptacle circuit GFCI is not in use. Keep in mind that portable GFCIs should only be used on a temporary basis and should be tested prior to use.


How to Test




Method 1: Circuit tester To test the GFCI with a circuit tester, plug in the tester and push its test button. If the power goes off, the GFCI is working. Press the GFCI reset button to restore power. If the power doesn't go off, the GFCI should be replaced.
 

Method 2: Press the reset button Push its test button. If the power goes off, the GFCI is working. Press the GFCI reset button to restore power. If the power doesn't go off, the GFCI should be replaced. Note: The reset button alone won't tell you if a pre-2006 GFCI outlet is still working properly - you'll need to check it with method 1.


Test once a month and after thunderstorms.

When to replace

When older units are tripping often or when the test fails. A reliable way to check an older GFCI is to use a circuit tester that has its own GFCI test button (sold at many DYI centers and hardware stores).  GFCIs can fail or become damaged and cease to function correctly. GFCIs devices can be damaged by lightning or electrical surges

All GFCIs manufactured after mid-2006 are designed to tell you when they fail. The vast majority indicate failure by shutting off power permanently. So someday your GFCI (and any other outlets connected to it) may simply stop delivering power and the GFCI will need to be replaced.

References



 
http://www.cpsc.gov/Regulations-Laws--Standards/Voluntary-Standards/Topics/Ground-Fault-Circuit-Interrupters/

http://www.ul.com/global/eng/pages/offerings/perspectives/consumer/productsafety/groundfault/

http://www.esasafe.com/GeneralPublic/est_001.php?s=16#4

Monday, April 1, 2013

Spring tip #10 - Watch those foundation Cracks

As mentioned in the Spring Maintenance tips, cracks in your foundation walls are easy spots for water to enter your home . Monitoring the condition of the cracks is necessary to prevent water from entering the basement. Minor cracks may seem harmless, but they can quickly become problems and can result in high repair costs. Larger cracks should be assessed and repaired as required by a professional.

Inspected by 42 Home Inspections - foundation crack
 
Inspected by 42 Home Inspections - foundation crack

Inspected by 42 Home Inspections - foundation crack







If you discover minor cracks on your foundation walls, you could be in danger of your basement leaking. Here are a few things you can do to:

  • Inspect your foundation often and call a professional if the gap is larger or appears to be growing in size.
     
  • Inspect your downspouts and extensions.  Make sure your downspout extensions will direct the water from your roof (4-6 feet) to the lawn and not along the side of your home near the foundation. When the water is being absorbed by the grass, it reduces the amount of water trying to penetrate through the foundation. 

  • Add downspout extensions

  • Make sure the water from your downspouts is draining on to your own property, not on to your neighbours or City owned property
     
  • Maintain proper lot grading.  Always slope the landscaping along the side of your home towards the lawn or away from the foundation, that way there is less water trying to enter the cracks in the foundation.
  • Maintaining/replacing the weeping tiles is another way you can deter water from entering the basement through the cracks.  Mind you this is not an expensive task. 

The best method of defence to a leaking foundation is to properly seal or repair the cracks. This will greatly reduce the amount of water that may enter the basement.

Other Resources:

http://www.nationalpost.com/Mike+Holmes+Cracks+shrinkage/3316106/story.html - Horizontal cracks

http://www.crackbuster.ca/articles3/types-of-foundation-cracks/ - Types of foundation cracks

http://realestate.msn.com/is-that-crack-serious-foundation-issues-101 - foundation cracks 101

http://inspectapedia.com/structure/FoundationCracks.htm - diagnose foundation cracks



Inspected by 42 Home Inspections - Kanata and Ottawa surrounding area

Friday, March 22, 2013

We All Win Lottery - check it out!


The We All Win lottery – the joint lottery between The Ottawa Hospital and CHEO Foundation – Prize draws for the We All Win Lottery will take place during a “Wild Week of Winning” and feature twenty-five $10,000 cash prizes, twenty-five $5,000 travel prizes, five automobiles, and four fully furnished luxury townhomes.
 
 
We all win lottery

From June 17 to 21, 2013 there will be daily draws for:


And on June 21, there will be four grand-prize draws for award-winning Horizon townhomes from Urbandale Construction.
 
Every grand-prize home – located at 252, 254, 256 and 258 Keyrock Dr. – comes completely furnished with appliances and furniture, thanks to Sears Home Store. You can drop by to see the homes from noon to 8 p.m. Monday to Friday, and from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekends and holidays.


As it turns out, the grand prize homes are just around the corner from the Inspected by 42 - Home Inspections.  Watch for our signs while you are in the neighbourhood - if you win and need a home inspection, give us a call. Good Luck!!



Tuesday, March 19, 2013

Spring Maintenance Tips

 
 
Spring is just around the corner. It`s time to start thinkimg about some home maintenance.  Regular maintenance protects your home investment, extends the life of systems and can reduce your operating costs.  It makes sense to do as much home maintenance as you can to save yourself money and keep your home in tip top shape.  Below are some suggested maintenance activities:


 1. Eaves and Downspouts

Clean debris from eavestroughs and downspouts. Check for loose or leaky eavestroughs, check that they are clean and free of leaves, branches and other debris that could cause them to clog or overflow. Make sure downspouts drain 4 to 6 feet away from the foundation Poor drainage can lead to water in the basement or crawl space.
2. Air Conditioning

Remove the cover and schedule service (power on if needed). Check the exterior unit coils and clean as required. Clean coils will allow the AC unit to operate more efficiently, and an annual service call will keep the system working at peak performance levels.
3. Furnace Humidifier

Turn off the power and wate; drain and clean filters. Close the bypass damper at the furnace on units with central air conditioning.
4. Roof and Shingles

From the ground, use binoculars to examine the roof shingles to see if any were lost or damaged during winter. Shingles that are cracked, buckled, loose or are missing granules will need to be replaced. Flashing around plumbing vents, skylights and chimneys should be checked and repaired by a qualified roofing contractor.  If your roof looks like the one in the photo above, it`s time to budget for roof replacement.
5. Clothes Dryer Exhaust Vent

Clean the clothes dryer exhaust vent and space under the dryer. Remove all lint, dust, and pieces of material. Check the exterior vent cover and replace any broken or missing louvers. A clogged vent can reduce your dryer’s efficiency and create a fire hazard.
6. Heat Recovery Ventilator (also known as HRV)
Clean and/or replace the heat recovery ventilator filyrtd as needed. The filters should be cleaned at least every two months. Also check the drain line is free of blockages. Check your user manual if you are not sure how to do this.
7. Driveway, Walkways, Patios
Check and repair any cracked, broken or uneven driveways, walkways and patios to provide a safe level walking surface.
8. Window and Door Trim

Check the trim around windows and doors. Repair or paint them before the spring rains can do more damage to the exposed wood and openings.  Repair loose or missing caulk from around windows and doors.
9. Exterior Hose Bibs (faucets)

Check the outside hose bibs (faucets) for freeze damage. Turn the water on and place your thumb or finger over the opening. If you can stop the flow of water, there is a good chance that the pipe inside the home is damaged and will need to be repaired or replaced. While you're at it, check the garden hose for dry rot. (do this only after all danger of frost has passed)
10. Foundation

Examine the foundation walls for cracks, leaks or signs of moisture, and repair as required. If cracks in the foundation exist, routine caulking won't do the job. You'll want to hire a foundation specialist, who can employ a two-part epoxy injection system that will bond those cracks chemically depending on the size of the crack.
11. Sump Pump

If you have a sump pump, ensure sump pump is operating properly before the spring thaw sets in. Ensure discharge pipe is connected and allows water to drain 4 to 6 feet away from the foundation. Having a backup ready is a good plan.
 
Once you've finished, sit back, relax, and feel proud of the great work you've done.  Inspected by 42 - Home Inspections also provides maintenance inspections.  If you want a detailed to do list. Give Barry a call today at 613-799-3698.
 
 

Tuesday, March 12, 2013

Check out the microFit Program

You've probably heard the ads on the radio in the past week or so in Ottawa.  I grabbed this info from the Ontario Power Authority (OPA) website (see the links to get the details), looks very interesting.

The Ontario Power Authority microFIT Program was launched in 2009 as part of the Ontario government’s efforts to increase renewable energy in the province. The program provides homeowners and other eligible participants with the opportunity to develop a small or “micro” renewable electricity generation project (10 kilowatts (kW) or less in size) on their property. 

 
You are paid for the power that you produce, with prices that:
  • are designed to cover the costs of a typical project
  • allow you to earn a reasonable rate of return on your investment over the term of the contract.
You can contribute to a healthier environment by:

For more details, see the microFIT OPA site:



microFIT Suppliers:
 



For Ottawa Home Inspections, see: http://www.inspectedby42.com
 

Monday, March 11, 2013

IB42 Mast Photography

Attention Ottawa real estate agents! Inspected by 42 Home Inspections also offers low level aerial photography in the Ottawa and surrounding area.

An elevated viewpoint gives added impact when marketing your properties, reducing your advertising costs at the same time.
  • Elevated photographs show the building / House / land at 45°
  • Giving the best image to aid sales of properties
  • Very reasonable costs 
  • Instant viewing on screen
  • Portable mast, which is independent and can be placed anywhere
  • Mast will elevate to 60 feet
  • Greet for those difficult to show properties
  • Add low level aerial photos to your client website, YouTube and other presentations
  • Image the potential of an elevated view
  • Get that extra edge on the competition
Before
Before
After
After
Before
Before
After

After
Street Level
Street Level
six feet
Six Feet
12 feet
12 Feet
18 feet
18 Feet
24 feet
24 Feet
30 feet
30 Feet
Inspected by 42 offers professional and through Home Inspection to Kanata, Ottawa and surrounding areas.
 
 

Wednesday, March 6, 2013

Prevent Kitchen Range Tip Over with an Anti-Tip Bracket

Anti-Tip
THE CAUSE

Free-standing kitchen ranges and even built-in ranges can tilt forward when too much weight is placed on an open oven door.  This can result in death or serious injuries from being trapped under the range, not to mention scalds and burns caused by hot food and liquids falling from the cook top.

This type of accident could happen to anyone, small children and the elderly are especially vulnerable to accidental kitchen range tipping. Parents should  supervise children when they are in the kitchen and educate them about the safe use of the range. A small child may stand on an open oven door in order to see what is cooking on the stove top and accidentally cause the entire unit to fall on top of them. Never use the oven door for support or as a step. This YouTube video is an example of what can happen:
 

THE IMPACT

Based on the US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) reports, there were 143 incidents between 1980 and 2006 that involved kitchen range tip over as a result of not having an anti tip bracket. Thirty three deaths occurred, 19 children, and all 33 deaths were caused by the victim being trapped under the range that fell on them.  Anti-tip devices became a UL requirement June 3, 1991.

THE SOLUTION

For protection against kitchen range tip-over, ensure the anti-tip device (should be included with the range when you buy it) is installed. The kitchen range anti-tip bracket is a single or two piece metal bracket that secures the range to the floor, wall or cabinet and helps prevent it from tipping. Remember to re-engage the anti-tip device if the range is moved for cleaning or repair.

Contact the kitchen range manufacturer, your appliance dealer or an authorized service agent for information and assistance to obtain a replacement anti-tip device. 


Read your manual that is supplied with the kitchen range before using it range to make yourself aware of safety guidelines. Read the instructions on how to check your range for the proper installation of the anti-tip bracket/device.  Some important safety tips:

  • Educate children on the proper and safe use of the range
  • Never use the door as a step stool, seat or as a support for body weight or other objects.
  • Keep the range door closed when not in use
  • Make sure the proper anti-tip device is correctly installed.
  • Check whether an anti-tip device has been installed. There are a couple, of ways this can be done on a range that is turned off and not hot:
          o  Take a look under the range to see if an anti-tip bracket is installed on the floor
              (it may be attached to the rear leg of the range),
          o  Carefully pull the back of the range to see if it pulls off the floor,
               (Safety Note: do not tilt the range more than several inches off the floor!)
                 o  It may also be possible to see a wall-mounted bracket by looking over the rear of
              the range;
     o  some models with removable drawers can be removed and a flashlight can be
              used to search for the bracket.

In response to this danger, the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and Underwriters Laboratories (UL) created standards in 1991 that require all ranges manufactured after that year to be capable of remaining stable while supporting 250 pounds of weight on their open doors. Manufacturers' instructions, too, require that anti-tip brackets provided be installed.  Ranges are susceptible to tipping if they are not equipped with anti-tip brackets.
YouTube videos of interest: 





Resources:










Friday, March 1, 2013

Renovation and Repair Costs

Renovattion Tips

Planning a home renovation or been wondering how much it's going to cost to get that aging roof replaced? Well the Ontario Contractors web site is a good place to start. Here you have a data base of contractors and a range of prices for the following areas:
  1. Roofing and Flashing
  2. Roofing (material and labour)
  3. Flashing
  4. Chimneys
  5. Gutters and Downpipes
  6. Fascia, Soffit and Exterior Trim - Supply and installed
  7. Exterior Finishes
  8. Structure Modifications and Renovations
  9. Interior Renovations
  10. Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC)
  11. Electrical
  12. Plumbing
  13. Insulation
The prices are intended to give you a rough idea of the amount you will need to budget for some common home renovation projects and repairs. These estimates are approximations intended for informational purposes only - they may vary by area. As with anything, it's always a good idea to get at least three quotes.

OTHER RESOURCES



Canadian Home Builder Association - Hiring a contractor
Hiring a Contractor

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
For Consumers: Renovating a Home
CMHC online resource with easy to understand information and tips for a successful renovation.

Réno-Maître program from the APCHQ (Québec residents)
Insurance Bureau of Canada
Useful information about homeowners insurance and construction project liability coverage.

And of course, hire a home inspector to inspect the work after or during a renovation or repair.